By I. Inojales | 08:17 PM November 27, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY — A historic milestone in the country’s religious and cultural landscape unfolded on Sunday with the opening and blessing of the Russian Orthodox Church of the Icon of the Mother of God “Quick to Hear” at Purok 6, Barangay Dao, Dauis — the first Russian Orthodox church in the Visayas and the first Russian-style Orthodox architectural structure in the Philippines.
The church was blessed in a solemn ceremony led by Host Priest Alexei Leromohah, whose vision and unwavering dedication guided its construction from groundbreaking to completion. What began as a shared dream of Bohol’s growing Russian community and Filipinos drawn to the Orthodox faith has now risen into a lasting symbol of cultural harmony and spiritual unity.
“This church is a gift from Russia to the Philippines — our cultural contribution to Filipino-Russian friendship,” organizers said during the ceremony, highlighting the structure not only as a place of worship but also as an emblem of deepening ties between both nations.
The inauguration gathered distinguished guests, including Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Marat Pavlov and his wife Irina Pavlov, Consul Ivan Gavrilov, and Honorary Consul Armi Lopez Garcia. Members of the Russian community, Filipino faithful, and local residents also came to witness the landmark event.
Gov. Aris Aumentado welcomed the addition of the province’s newest religious landmark, saying structures that celebrate cultural and spiritual diversity strengthen Bohol’s identity while enriching its tourism and heritage landscape.
Completed in exactly 500 days, the church reflects the expanding presence of the Russian community in Bohol — an island increasingly favored by foreign residents and visitors for its rapid growth, accessibility, and welcoming environment. Its establishment was inspired not only by Russians living or staying in the province, but also by Filipinos who have found spiritual resonance in the Orthodox tradition.
Father Alexei expressed hope that the church will serve as a sanctuary for both Russians and Filipinos — a space for prayer, reflection, learning, and fellowship. With Bohol’s rising popularity among international travelers, he also envisions it as a spiritual home for Russian tourists visiting the province.
The church is open to the public, inviting visitors to explore its sacred spaces and experience the living traditions of the Orthodox faith.
Visit the church’s official Facebook page: Russian Orthodox Church on Panglao for mass schedules and announcements.
